Multiple South African cross country motorcycle racing champion Kenny Gilbert is all set for the biggest race of his life when Dakar 2019 starts in Lima, Peru Monday 7 January. Gilbert, who takes his Dakar leap of faith next week, is already in Peru as he works through final preparations to race his Husqvarna in the 2019 epic.

“We are just a few days away from the start of the biggest race of my life,” Kenny admitted on Thursday. “I had a few very special people - my family and my local Husqvarna team see me off last week and now it’s time to conquer my dream and make them, and all my fans proud. “I have spent the last few days fettling and preparing my bike and I am working hard on my road book — my biggest Dakar challenge.

“All that is left now is a little testing today before documentation and scrutineering Friday; the ceremonial podium start on Sunday and then it’s race day Monday - bring it on!"